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Research & Reviews: A Journal of Drug Formulation, Development and Production Review Article

Comprehensive Evaluation of Quercetin from Bauhinia purpurea for Its Anti-Acne and Anti-Inflammatory Potential, Including Advances in Quercetin-Loaded Nanogel Formulation

  1. Astha Bhandari Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Mewar University, Gangrar, Chittorgarh 312901
  2. Kamlesh Mistry Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Mewar University, Gangrar, Chittorgarh 312901
  3. Tanya Sharma Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Mewar University, Gangrar, Chittorgarh 312901

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is among the most prevalent chronic inflammatory dermatoses in clinical dermatology, afflicting a substantial proportion of the global adolescent and adult population. Conventional pharmacotherapies — including topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and systemic antibiotics — remain the therapeutic mainstay; however, their long-term utility is progressively undermined by adverse cutaneous reactions, systemic toxicity, and the rising prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Cutibacterium acnes strains. These limitations have intensified scientific interest in plant-derived bioactives as alternative or adjunctive agents. Bauhinia purpurea L. (Leguminosae–Caesalpinioideae), a medicinally revered tree indigenous to tropical Asia, harbours a diverse array of secondary metabolites, among which quercetin — a pentahydroxylated flavonol — has emerged as a particularly promising multi-target candidate. This review consolidates current knowledge on: (i) the botanical identity and phytochemical profile of B. purpurea, with emphasis on quercetin content and extraction methodology; (ii) the structural and physicochemical attributes underpinning quercetin's bioactivity; (iii) the mechanistic basis of its anti-acne and anti-inflammatory properties, encompassing NF-κB pathway modulation, MAPK signalling suppression, sebostatic activity, inhibition of C. acnes, and oxidative-stress regulation; and (iv) contemporary advances in quercetin-loaded nanogel formulations designed to overcome quercetin's intrinsic biopharmaceutical limitations. Emerging nanocarrier strategies — including carbopol-based nanogels, polymeric nanoparticle-incorporated gels, solid lipid nanoparticle gels, and nanostructured lipid carrier gels — are critically appraised. Research gaps, regulatory considerations, and a future roadmap for clinical translation are also delineated.

Keywords

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